How does SOL test problem/solution text structure?

• A. By presenting a problem and describing one or more solutions and their outcomes in informational texts.
• B. By listing unrelated facts without a problem.
• C. By focusing exclusively on vocabulary usage.
• D. By comparing two different genres.

Answer: (A)

Problem/solution text structure starts by identifying a problem, then describes one or more solutions and what happens as a result. On SOL tests, informational passages often open with a issue to address, present possible responses or actions, and explain the outcomes, benefits, or drawbacks of those options. This pattern helps you show you can recognize the issue, follow the proposed responses, and evaluate what happened after those responses were put in place.

For example, a passage might explain a community grappling with litter, propose options like increasing recycling programs or hosting cleanup events, and then discuss the results or potential consequences of each choice. The focus is on how the problem is addressed and what the effects of the solutions are.

The other choices don’t fit this structure because listing unrelated facts doesn’t hinge on a problem or its solutions; focusing exclusively on vocabulary isn’t about how the text is organized; and comparing two genres isn’t about solving a problem within the text.